Skip to content

Baibserpllcmsmsscnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

A laboratory test that measures the level of beta-aminoisobutyric acid in your blood using advanced mass spectrometry technology.

Quick summary

{"Measures BAIB, a byproduct of DNA breakdown in your body","Helps detect rare metabolic disorders and assess nutritional status","Performed on a blood sample using LC/MS/MS technology","Results help doctors evaluate how your body metabolizes certain nutrients","May be used to monitor certain genetic conditions or nutritional deficiencies"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
112421-3
Short code
BAIB
Synonyms
B-AIB SerPl LC/MS/MS-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top serum tube or serum separator tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
lc-ms-ms
CPT
82542
SNOMED
44161004
Specimen volume
1.0 mL serum or plasma
Stability
Serum/plasma stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
50
TAT
48–120 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Beta-Aminoisobutyrate (BAIB) test measures the amount of a substance called beta-aminoisobutyric acid in your blood or plasma. BAIB is a small molecule produced when your body breaks down thymine, a building block of DNA. This test uses a sophisticated laboratory technique called Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) to accurately detect and measure BAIB levels.

Your body normally produces and processes BAIB efficiently. However, certain genetic conditions or nutritional factors can affect BAIB levels. This test helps healthcare providers understand how well your body is handling this metabolic process.

Reference range

Reference values may vary by laboratory; consult your lab's reference range for specific interpretation. Beta-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIB) is a non-protein amino acid resulting from pyrimidine metabolism. Elevated urinary excretion is common and typically benign in certain populations (high excretors).N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a metabolic disorder, such as unusual fatigue, developmental delays, or neurological problems. It may also be part of a comprehensive metabolic screening panel or used to monitor treatment for certain genetic conditions.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample will be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed using LC/MS/MS technology, which can detect even very small amounts of BAIB with high precision.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Your doctor will provide specific instructions. Some laboratories may require fasting for 8-12 hours before the test, while others do not. Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal BAIB levels can result from various conditions. High levels may indicate certain genetic metabolic disorders or conditions affecting folate metabolism. Low levels are less common but may also provide important diagnostic information. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your overall health and other test findings.
Is this test safe?
Yes, the test is very safe. The main risk is minimal bruising or bleeding at the needle site. Some people may feel lightheaded during or after the blood draw.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Genetic DisordersSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Test CatalogSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy